Hinemoa

Hinemoa is a feminine name of Māori origin linked to an old, classic tale of love that’s famous in New Zealand. Hinemoa means “daughter” or “girl” from hine, with moa referring to a species of large, flightless bird that is now extinct. You may have heard of the story of Hinemoa and Tūtānekai, which is about the daughter of a chief in Owhata and a man from another tribe on Mokoia Island. Because of their different social statuses, their love was forbidden, and they grew incredibly sad. To express his sorrow, Tūtānekai and his friend Tiki would play evocative music at the shore every night, which could be heard by Hinemoa all the way across the waters. One night, Hinemoa had enough of feeling sad and decided to swim from Owhata to Mokoia Island, with Tūtānekai’s beautiful music guiding the way. She managed to playfully lure Tūtānekai to a bathing pool near his home, where she was warming up after her swim, and the two were finally united. The next day, it was quickly discovered by Tūtānekai’s people that the couple were together. At around the same time, boats from Owhata arrived to bring Hinemoa home. Instead of conflict, the two tribes decided to embrace and celebrate each other and the couple’s love and unity. Hinemoa embodies timeless romance and determination and may inspire baby to be bold and ambitious and to chase their dreams no matter what challenges lie ahead.